Also called "Chat Programs". These applications are installed on a PC by a user, and allow immediate "chats" between other users of the program. Some of these programs also allow audio or video conferencing as well as the ability to execute file transfers.
AOL and ICQ Instant Messenger has features such as: text, voice, video. This IM also has games that can be played with other people on your buddy list. You can also forward messages from AIM to your cell phone when you are not online. File transfer is also available. AIM and ICQ use similar protocols, and they interoperable with each others network.
